The University of Washington is mourning the loss of Mia Hamant, a talented and beloved goalkeeper for the Huskies women’s soccer team, who passed away Thursday at age 21 following a courageous battle with kidney cancer. The university announced her death in a statement expressing deep sorrow for the loss of a player known as both a fierce competitor and a source of inspiration to everyone around her.

Hamant was one of the standout goalkeepers in the Big Ten Conference, helping the Huskies reach the semifinals of the 2024 Big Ten tournament during her junior year. She finished that season with a goals-against average of just 0.66 — the third-lowest in program history — and was widely regarded as one of the top defensive players in the league.

A Legacy of Strength and Inspiration

Women’s soccer coach Nicole Van Dyke said Hamant’s influence extended far beyond the field. “Mia was the heart of our program — someone who lifted up everyone around her with her joy, courage, and kindness,” Van Dyke said in a statement shared by the University of Washington Athletics Department. “Even in the most difficult moments, she showed an unshakable spirit that inspired her teammates and coaches every single day. Mia made us all better people, and her impact will be felt in this program and in all of our lives forever.”

Hamant was diagnosed with Stage 4 kidney cancer in April and made the difficult decision to step away from the team to begin chemotherapy. Despite her illness, she remained a visible and spirited presence around Husky athletics, attending games and supporting her teammates whenever she could.

Earlier this fall, she appeared at Husky Stadium to sound the siren before a Washington football game, an emotional moment that drew applause from fans and athletes alike. Wide receiver Denzel Boston spoke about her strength after the team’s victory over Illinois, telling The Seattle Times that the players were united in their support for her. “Mia’s going through tough, tough struggles with cancer,” Boston said. “We’re just trying to be there to support her.”

Remembering a Husky Who Embodied Courage

Earlier this week, the Big Ten Conference honored Hamant with the 2025 Sportsmanship Award, recognizing her resilience, positivity, and sportsmanship throughout her illness. The Corte Madera, California native was known not just for her athletic achievements but for her ability to connect with people — teammates, coaches, and fans — with sincerity and warmth.

Athletic director Pat Chun also paid tribute, saying Hamant exemplified everything the university hoped to see in its student-athletes. “Mia embodied perseverance, grace, and an unwavering commitment to her teammates and community,” Chun said. “Her courage through adversity and the legacy she leaves behind will forever inspire the UW family.”

Hamant’s teammates and friends have shared tributes across social media, remembering her as someone who brought laughter and strength even in her most difficult days. Her loss leaves a void not only in the Huskies soccer program but in the broader University of Washington community.

Mia Hamant is survived by her parents.